http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents FHSU Current Events FHSU en-us http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4030Demonstrating its commitment to find innovative solutions for unmet needs, Fort Hays State University has published the first edition of a scholarly journal that will focus on a previously ignored segment of higher education. "Teacher-Scholar: The Journal of the State Comprehensive University" becomes the only fully peer-reviewed publication for universities across the nation that are similar in composition and mission to FHSU. The journal is available both in print and online at www.fhsu.edu/teacher-scholar. "I realize state comprehensive university is not a term that everyone would recognize, but it describes a tier of higher education that plays an essential role in the well-being of our nation," Dr. Edward H. Hammond, FHSU president, said during a news conference this morning to announce the launch of the new journal. "Think of FHSU and you will have a good sense of the nature of a comprehensive state university. SCUs are state-funded universities where teaching is the top priority, where few if any Ph.D. programs are offered, where public access to education is emphasized and where service to a particular region is considered vital." Dr. Larry Gould, FHSU provost, encouraged and supported creation of "Teacher-Scholar," and Dr. Steven Trout, professor of English, serves as editor. Dr. Hong Wang, director of Instructional Design and Course Support in the Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning Technologies, oversaw creation of the online version of the journal, and Joshua Smith, a Wichita graduate student in Graphic Design, created the publication's unique design. "Dr. Gould and Dr. Trout saw a need and stepped forward to meet that need," President Hammond said. "We believe our university should be engaged in the larger academic community, and it would be difficult to imagine a more meaningful place for engagement than with state comprehensive universities, which for too long have been the invisible workhorses of higher education." Pointing to recent scholarship that criticizes higher education, Gould said it was clear the U.S. higher-education system was faced with daunting challenges and an array of new opportunities generated by global and economic changes, the quest for planetary survival, technological evolution, and the need to educate citizens for American democracy. "Unless higher-education institutions are willing to address the gap between historical deficiencies and current demands for more access, affordability, assessment and accountability, they face further scrutiny and criticism," Gould said. "There is a definite need to provide a 'forum' for exploring the role and potential influence of SCUs as key players in a world where education addresses an ever-growing array of societal challenges. 'Teacher-Scholar: The Journal of the State Comprehensive University' is intended to meet that need." Although the American Association of State Colleges and Universities does a great job in Washington representing the 430 institutions that can be defined as SCUs, Gould said the time had come to give SCUs a public intellectual voice that both addresses higher education's current challenges and helps to shape the "college of 2020." "The arrival of 'Teacher-Scholar' fills a breach in the literature on higher education institutions that has been left void far too long," he said. As editor, Trout explained that the new journal would explore the history, present circumstances and possible future of America's hardest working but least studied institutions of higher learning. "SCUs are typically seen as less prestigious, but they play a vital role in the American academy, providing relatively low-cost instruction to millions of students and employing a sizable percentage of young Ph.D.s, most of whom leave their doctoral programs without any conception of what it will be like to work at institutions where faculty members are teachers and scholars, in that order," he said. Trout said the new journal would delve into many questions: What are the benefits of working at an SCU? What kinds of challenges do the faculty and the administration face? How is the education provided by SCUs different from that offered by large research schools or private liberal arts colleges? How do students fare once they graduate from universities that supposedly lack prestige? How can technology best be utilized for teaching and learning at such schools? What is campus culture like at an SCU? What is the real role of research and scholarship at these institutions? What do interdisciplinary scholarship and teaching mean at an SCU? How does internationalization occur on these campuses? And, most crucial, what role and responsibilities does the SCU have in the reform of a world-respected system of higher education that is reshaping itself to deliver education in ways never before thought possible? "These questions and more will be addressed in the pages of 'Teacher-Scholar,'" Trout said. He also said the new journal also would provide the spark for a more intense examination of the role of SCUs right on the FHSU campus. Trout said faculty would meet in a forum on Thursday, Nov. 5, in the Trails Room of the FHSU Memorial Union to share their reactions to issues raised in the journal. "I feel very proud to work on the 'Teacher-Scholar' journal with Dr. Steven Trout, the CTELT staff and my student worker, Tony Hu," Wang said. "Some special features of the online journal include the podcasts created to introduce the authors and their articles, a mouse-over function to display the references in the article, a floating window to show the headings and their hyperlinks within each article, and a capacity to submit the manuscript to the editor directly online through the 'Contact' link." "Teacher-Scholar: The Journal of the State Comprehensive University" will be published annually both online and in hard copy and will be fully peer-reviewed. Peer review, which is also known as refereeing, is the process of subjecting articles to the scrutiny of experts in the same academic discipline. The process helps to ensure that research and writing meet accepted standards of the discipline. The inaugural issue of "Teacher-Scholar" features a "Preface" by Provost Gould and the following articles: • "Introduction: The Work of the People’s University" by Bruce Henderson, Western Carolina University 
 • "Created in their Image: Academic Careers Molded (Mangled?) by State Comprehensive Universities" by Julia M. Gergits, Youngstown State University 
 • "A Context for Extramural Funding at State Comprehensive Universities: Tilting at Windmills or Fighting the Good Fight?" by John Falconer, University of Nebraska-Kearney 
 • "Building Bridges: What State Comprehensive Universities and Research Institutions Could Learn From One Another" by Donald E. Hall, West Virginia University The editors invite contributions to the new journal from anyone interested in the influence and place of SCUs in the rethinking and revitalization of the American higher education system.Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4030http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4029The Kansas Academy of Math and Science (KAMS) will hold a preview day at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14 on the Fort Hays State University campus. The preview will address the academic program, admissions requirements, student development opportunities and a tour of the FHSU lab facilities and campus. "This is an excellent opportunity for prospective students and parents to come and get a great feel for the university," said Dr. Angela Bolte, marketing and admissions coordinator for KAMS. Prospective students will have the opportunity to tour all of FHSU's basic lab facilities and listen to presentations by instructors in the Department of Geosciences and the Department of Mathematics. Time has been allotted to visit with KAMS faculty, staff and first-year KAMS students. KAMS expects 40 Kansas high school juniors and seniors to enroll in its second class in fall 2010. These students will receive hands-on research experience supervised by Ph.D. scientists, 68 hours of college credit and co-curricular and extra-curricular development opportunities in a safe residential environment. "The first class is doing extremely well," Bolte said. "The students are adjusting very easily and are very excited about their classes." Prospective students must have completed two years of high school or the equivalent with distinction in mathematics and science. They must also have a 23 composite score on the ACT or a 1060 score on the SAT. "We are looking forward to the second class to better the academy and create a foundation for future years," said Bolte. Seating for the preview is limited and registration is required by Monday, Nov. 9. Visit the KAMS Web site to register at http://fhsu.edu/kams or contact KAMS at (785) 628-4690 or email kams@fhsu.edu.Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4029http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4023As the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association fall season rolls along, two Monte Vista, Colo., natives have proved to be integral members of the Fort Hays State University Rodeo Team. In fact, these two have combined to earn all the points for the FHSU men’s team, which currently sits 11th in the NIRA Central Plains Region standings. Freshman Blair Jones and senior Cody Pratt, roommates and traveling partners, compete in both the team roping and the steer wrestling. Although they have yet to make the short round in the team roping, steer wrestling proves to be a different story. At the Southeastern Oklahoma State University Rodeo in Coleman, Jones had a run of 4.8 seconds in the steer wrestling, putting him in sixth going into the short-go. Not only did Jones have the fastest time of the short-go with a 3.5, but the two times together also won him the average. Jones was glad to have the weekend fall together so well. “I felt like everything really came together this weekend. I had my head on straight, everything started clicking right and it ended up in my favor,” Jones said. After winning the Southeastern Oklahoma rodeo, Jones now leads the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association Central Plains Region in the steer wrestling with 175 points. He kept it simple when describing what it feels like to lead an entire region as a freshman. “It feels good,” he said. Nevertheless, Jones knows that it will take a lot of work to stay up there until the end of the 2009-2010 rodeo season. “There are a lot more rodeos to go, and I’ll have to keep going at it and doing my best.” At the season’s previous rodeo at Pratt Community College, Jones also made the short-go in the steer wrestling, along with Pratt. Jones nearly won the long round with a 4.6 but came up short by one tenth of a second. Pratt was a 5.1 in the long-go, putting him in seventh going into the finals. In the short round, Jones had a run of 5.8 while Pratt improved his time with a 4.5. Jones ended up seventh in the average. Pratt finished fifth. “I would have liked to have placed better, but I was happy with how it turned out,” Pratt said. Jones was glad to place at his second college rodeo; however, he knew that he was capable of more -- as he proved in Coleman. “I feel like I did good at Pratt,” Jones said. “I could have done better, but as a freshman, I feel like I have started my year off alright. I could have gotten a better start in the short round. That’s the only thing that hurt me.” The two bulldogging powerhouses didn’t just meet this year. They say they’ve known each other forever. “We used to kick it together when we were in diapers,” Pratt said with a grin. Jones and Pratt really became good friends when they started roping together. Pratt, Jones says, is really the one who got him started in rodeo. “I knew he wanted to rope and be a cowboy, and I was fortunate enough to grow up around it, so I figured he should get the same opportunity,” Pratt said. Jones knew from the start that Pratt was the kind of guy from whom he wanted to learn. “Cody is one of those guys that has a very good head on his shoulders and has done a lot with his life already,” Jones said. “By doing that, he shows me the right path to go down. He has been a really good influence on me. He has done a lot for me and has helped me out a lot with stuff in life -- not just in the arena but outside, too.” Pratt thinks just as highly of Jones. “He is a great kid. He has a lot of ability and things going for him. I love him like a brother and would do anything for him,” Pratt said. Jones and Pratt and the rest of the FHSU Rodeo Team will compete next in Alva, Okla., at the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Rodeo, Nov. 5-7. The current standings and rodeo results can be found on the NIRA Web site, www.collegerodeo.com. For more information on the FHSU Rodeo Team, visit the Web site at www.fhsu.edu/rodeo.Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4023http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4024Hugh Merrill, professor of art at the Kansas City Art Institute and community art director for the Chameleon Art and Youth Development Center in Kansas City, Mo., is visiting Fort Hays State University on Nov. 12-13 to lead a discussion about community needs, creative projects and art in Hays. Merrill has worked in Kansas City and abroad to implement community art projects including directing an art workshop with a children's homeless shelter in Kansas City. Amy Schmierbach, associate professor of art and design at FHSU, will host the discussion with Merrill to brainstorm potential community art projects in Hays. All interested individuals are invited to attend. "The goal of the creative workshop is to create many interesting ideas for projects but also to unite people who believe that the arts can bring people together to create a community," said Schmierbach. Merrill will talk about his artwork and community projects at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, in the Stouffer Lounge in the Memorial Union. His works have been exhibited internationally. He will also talk about his work at the Chameleon Art and Youth Development Center in Kansas City. At 9:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 13 in the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art, Merrill will lead a discussion with FHSU art students, staff and faculty members and community members about possible community art projects that can be implemented in Hays. For more information on Merrill's creative workshop contact Schmierbach at (785) 628-4272 or email aschmier@fhsu.edu. Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4024http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4025From violins and cellos to street rhymes and sing-a-longs, the String-a-Palooza musical fair and extravaganza will provide various forms of entertainment for children in the Memorial Union on the Fort Hays State University campus. Presented by the Western Kansas String Academy and FHSU's Alpha Pi chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota, String-a-Palooza will take place on Saturday, Nov. 14. Events will begin at 9:30 a.m. Among the performers, Maria Anthony, Lawrence, will host two children's concerts. Anthony uses guitar, flute and bodhran, an Irish frame drum, for accompaniment in her performances, which include stories, sing-a-longs, humor and poetry. She uses costume, rhythm and rhyme. Programs include translation of the Gaelic language, songs about children by children, otherwise known at "street rhymes," and movement activities. Anthony will have two half-hour concerts in the union. Her first concert will begin at 9:30 a.m. This concert will concentrate on pre-school-aged children while her second, at 11:30 a.m., will be for children of all ages. Anthony has been performing since 1982 and has produced four recordings of traditional and original music with violinist and singer Megan Hurt as well as the folk-rock band "Uncle Dirty Toes." Anthony is a songwriter as well as a creative interpreter of traditional music. She performs at Celtic and Scottish festivals throughout the region. There will be hands-on booths and exploration activities for children from 10 to 11 a.m. Exploration centers available will include "Instrument Petting Zoo," a "Drumming Circle," "Make your own RainStick," a pre-school song circle, "Exotic String Instruments" and an electric instrument experiment station. For children in kindergarten or older, violin and cello lessons will be offered at 10:30 a.m. Children in the second grade or above can participate in guitar lessons as well. For these half-hour sessions, instruments will be provided to introduce children to the art of playing a musical instrument. For those interested in participating in the lessons, contact the String Academy by Thursday, Nov. 12 to reserve a seat. At 11 a.m., a musically-illustrated reading of Pete Seeger's story "Abiyoyo!" will be performed by the String Academy intermediate and advanced orchestra. The orchestra will play music written by FHSU music student Krista Connelly, Hays junior, while Dr. Doug Drabkin, associate professor of philosophy, narrates. Registration will be in the Sunset Lounge in the Memorial Union at 9:15 a.m. on the day of the event. However, visitors are welcome to come and go to the morning's events as their schedules allow. For more information, contact Cathy Drabkin, executive director of the Western Kansas String Academy, at (785) 628-5363 or at cadrabkin@fhsu.edu.Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4025http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4026In defiance of their characterization by the national media as an "invisible minority," Fort Hays State University students will gather at Forsyth Library at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3, to hear a panel of health industry insiders talk about reform. Presented by Forsyth Library, FHSU's Learning Commons and the American Democracy Project, the event will also feature an interactive exhibition of gaming and information stations and an informal reception that will provide an opportunity for open discussion. Door prizes and refreshments will be provided. Healthcare: Get in the Game was conceived as a chance for students to get real information, rather than rhetoric and partisan "politics as usual" and as an opportunity to ask questions about the proposed legislation and the process in a rational environment. The panel for features speakers from three different perspectives on this complex issue: Dona Koenigsman, director of the FHSU Student Health Center, joined the staff at the beginning of this academic year. She had been director of Hays Planned Parenthood and clinic manager at the Renal Care Center. Koenigsman graduated from FHSU in 1995 with a degree in nursing. Sunee Mickle, director of Government Relations for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, coordinates the company's activities with elected officials and regulatory agencies, oversees lobbying efforts and the maintenance of member contracts. Mickle previously worked as a senior policy analyst in the public health unit at the Kansas Health Institute, where she researched and analyzed legal and health policy issues in such public health areas as childhood immunizations, public health systems and patient information privacy. Before joining KHI, Mickle worked in the pharmaceutical industry for nine years. Dr. Marilyn Ray, a board certified radiologist and a fellow at FHSU's Docking Institute of Public Affairs, practices radiology in northwest Kansas and eastern Colorado. She obtained her M.D. from Tufts University in Boston and took her radiology training at Harvard's Beth Israel Hospital, also in Boston. She received a master's in public health at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Md., in May 2004. Her main interest in public health is strategic health communication, with the goal of improving the community norms of health behaviors, both here and abroad. For more information about this event or to arrange an interview with one of the organizers, please contact Tania Alekson at (785) 365-6056 or tlalekson@fhsu.edu.Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4026http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4027The Fort Hays State University Foundation recently named two new alumni to its Board of Trustees, Dr. Gary Fredrickson, Oberlin, and Kent Needham, Tonganoxie. The FHSU Foundation raises and invests all funds on behalf of the university and recently launched a three-year $60 million fundraising effort for FHSU called the Cornerstone Campaign. "We are thrilled to have Gary and Kent join our team as a member of the Board of Trustees," said Tim Chapman, president and CEO of the Foundation. "The mission of the Foundation is more important than ever as state funding continues to decline. These individuals' enthusiasm for FHSU will help us in many ways throughout the state and region as we strive to meet our goal of raising $60 million in the Cornerstone Campaign." Fredrickson is a dentist and the owner of Family Dentistry in Oberlin and the Smith Center Dental Clinic in Smith Center. Needham is the president and CEO of First Security Bank in Overbrook. Fredrickson graduated from FHSU in 1977 with a bachelor's degree in general science before attending dental school. He opened his practice in Oberlin in 1982 and took over the Smith Center practice last year on a part-time basis from a retiring dentist. Needham graduated from FHSU in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in business administration and earned a master's in business administration from Wichita State University in 1976. He served as chairman of the Kansas Banker's Association from 2004-2005 and currently serves on the Administrative Committee of America's Community Bankers Council of the American Bankers Association in Washington, D.C. The Board of Trustees helps govern the policies, procedures and investment strategies of the Foundation. The FHSU Foundation is an independent, non-profit corporation designated by the state of Kansas to receive gifts on behalf of Fort Hays State University. The corporation qualifies as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. For more information, visit www.fhsu.edu/foundation.Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4027http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4028Two faculty members at Fort Hays State University recently published an article in Academic Leadership: The Online Journal. Dr. Shala Mills, chair of the Department of Political Science, and Dr. Bryan Bennett, an assistant professor in the department, wrote "y cant they rite?: Integrating Writing Assessment Across the Undergraduate Political Science Major." The article explores common issues affecting undergraduate writing, offers suggestions for strategies designed to improve overall writing effectiveness and provides examples of steps taken by FHSU's Department of Political Science to improve student writing. Mills also published "How to Succeed in the Academy: A Chair's Advice to Junior Faculty" in the fall issue of The Department Chair: A Resource for Academic Administrators. "Quality teaching, scholarship and/or service will not ensure success if good work in those areas is combined with failure to follow institutional policies, efforts to undermine institution missions, or engagement in malignant interpersonal interactions," Mills said. "This article offers advice to young faculty to help them succeed."Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4028http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4021Dr. Paul Adams, professor of physics and Anschutz Professor of Education, was the featured speaker at the Fort Hays State University Honors Convocation on Oct. 22, where he was awarded as a President's Distinguished Scholar. In a lively presentation called "Reflections and Refractions of a Science Nomad," Adams told the story of his work in science teaching and student learning. He conducted science demonstrations using items such as a basketball, bottles of water and a fire extinguisher to illustrate key speaking points of his research-based ideas. Adams is a graduate of Heidelberg College, Tiffin, Ohio, with a Bachelor of Science in physics and math. He received his teaching certification and a Master of Science in physics from Washington State University, Pullman, and a Ph.D. in science education from Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind. He joined the FHSU faculty in 1996 as an instructor of physics and was promoted to the academic rank of professor in 2003. He now holds the endowed position of Anschutz Professor of Education. Well known for his dedication to science education and his extensive grant writing skills, Adams' efforts over the years have added substantial resources to the accomplishments of FHSU. One of his most successful entrepreneurial achievements is his introduction of the Kansas Academy of Math and Science, or KAMS. KAMS is a premiere early-entry-to-college program that incorporates a unique residential learning experience for exceptional high school juniors and seniors. The Kansas Board of Regents selected FHSU to host the academy in partnership with the Kansas Legislature and other key stakeholders. Adams serves as the founding director of the FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute in the College of Education and Technology. The institute sponsors LEGO robotics competitions, FHSU girls' science and math camps, space week, Earth Day and various teacher workshops. Adams has served on numerous departmental and university committees, and his record in research and faculty institutional leadership provided a solid foundation for his reception of the Faculty Member of the Year Award in 1998 and 2005. Adams has been a facilitator of two satellite missions and three NASA workshops. He has worked with teachers from the French Space Agency and teachers in Mexico. During the convocation, President Edward H. Hammond also recognized various students and faculty who had received academic honors.Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4021http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4022After years on the job away from his home state of Kansas, Steve Gonzalez has come back to Fort Hays State University as the University Bookstore manager. Gonzalez, who grew up in Garden City, came to FHSU in 1974 to pursue an elementary education degree. After graduating in 1979, he worked in the community for a while before he saw an advertisement for the position of FHSU Bookstore manager. “I applied for that position, and it happened to be for Follett out of Chicago. I went out to Chicago, got interviewed and got the position,” Gonzalez said. Gonzalez remained at FHSU for 14 years until the lease between Follett and FHSU expired and Barnes and Noble won the bid. “I had already put in 14 years with the company, and I felt it was a good company, so my loyalty was to stay with the company. I didn’t apply for Barnes or talk to Barnes about it,” Gonzalez said. Instead, he asked Follett what they could do for him. Follett offered him the choice of jobs in either Texas or Virginia, and Gonzalez chose the East Coast job. But the bigger school took some time to get used to. “Virginia was a bigger store just in size alone and then in population of students. I think at the time, Fort Hays might have been six or seven thousand students, and I was going to a university with 20,000 students,” Gonzalez said. Still, having grown up and lived in Kansas his entire life, Gonzalez felt it was a great opportunity to go. “I’m glad I went -- I learned a lot,” he said. He managed the Virginia Commonwealth University bookstore in Va., for eight years. Then its contract came up. Gonzalez once more decided to stay with the company that had done so much for him for the past few years. That choice led him to San Antonio, Texas, to oversee five junior colleges. With so many different schools to look after, Gonzalez spent a day a week at each of them. “I missed being in the store for day-to-day operations...You didn’t have that feeling of family. I missed that because I was going to five different locations,” Gonzalez said. Because of this, Gonzalez started looking for another job with Follett. That’s when he saw Fort Hays State was looking to hire. He let himself think about it for a while before deciding to apply. “The more I thought about it, I just started putting little things together. My first and biggest consideration really was family--you always want to go back to Kansas somewhere,” Gonzalez said. After deciding to apply, Gonzalez was offered the job and accepted it, and he says above all things, his favorite thing about working at FHSU is the people on campus. “It’s that kindness--willingness to talk to you. It’s a smaller-knit group of people,” Gonzalez said. “I’m really glad I’m here. It’s a good school. We’re glad to be back.” The University Bookstore is located in the Memorial Union on the FHSU campus. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4022http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4019Dr. Edward H. Hammond, president of Fort Hays State University, will spend the week of Oct. 26 through 30 touring the length and breadth of Kansas to describe the challenges facing higher education and the strategies FHSU has pursued to ensure high academic quality during difficult times. "As representatives of the Kansas Board of Regents described to business leaders during recent visits to several Kansas cities, state financial support for the Kansas higher education system has declined from a high of $853 million in fiscal year 2009 to $753 million in the current year," President Hammond said. "That represents a return to the fiscal year 2006 funding level at a time when Kansans need higher education more than ever." The president said the strategy behind "Forward thinking. World ready." represents the attitude and commitment FHSU has made to overcome the state's financial struggles during the national economic downturn. "In the last 10 months, the higher education budget has been cut by 12 percent and state funding for K-12 has been cut by 4.8 percent," he said. "So, while Kansans are seeking continuing education in order to become more competitive in the tight job market, all six state universities are having to do more with less." President Hammond pointed out that the financial challenges actually go back further than last October's economic collapse. "Since 1988, state funding per student at Kansas Regents universities has declined by 20 percent while enrollment has increased by 13 percent. As a result, tuition costs have increased, and this has been true not only in Kansas but nationally," he said. "In 1988, state funding covered 47 percent of the cost of an education at Regents universities and students paid 16 percent. Those lines are now about to cross, with the state paying 27 percent and students paying 26 percent." This trend in reduced state funding, if it continues, threatens the possibility that many Kansans may no longer have access to higher education. "We are not content to sit back at FHSU and wait for things to improve," the president said, "and we know Kansans expect no less. Our Docking Institute of Public Affairs conducted an inaugural 'Kansas Speaks' survey this summer that showed, among other things, that 43 percent of Kansans favor increased funding for higher education and 91 percent say the funding should at least be maintained at its current level." By adapting a forward-thinking strategy, FHSU has been able to keep the cost of education affordable. "We have generated new revenue through growth, we have implemented efficiencies to reduce operational costs and we have made some cuts in our operational budget," President Hammond said. FHSU's growth has been extraordinary. "From 5,506 students on the 20th day of the fall 2000 semester, we reported 11,308 students on the 20th day this semester," the president said. "Our enrollment has more than doubled since the turn of the century." Collectively, the six Regents universities had an increase of 1,435 students from last fall semester. Of that total, 1,201 of the new students -- representing 83 percent of the Regents-system growth -- were at FHSU. Faced with a budget in the current fiscal year that was reduced by 14 percent from the previous year, FHSU moved to a four-day summer workweek and raised thermostat settings. University employees worked 10-hour days Mondays through Thursdays, and the university converted all but about 30 essential on-campus classes into Virtual College classes during the summer. The result was a savings of more than 25 percent in air conditioning bills. The university had implemented other efficiencies immediately after the financial collapse in October. Those included a savings of about $1 million a year by developing Virtual College classes in-house, more than $300,000 through academic reorganization and $875,000 by developing its own student record system. Even with the growth and efficiencies, budget cuts of about 6 percent were necessary. "We had calculated that a funding reduction of this magnitude would require the elimination of 54 employees," President Hammond said. "Instead, about 30 positions were impacted," "As a result of our strategy of growth, efficiencies and budget cuts, we are the only four-year institution in the region that was able to keep tuition for in-state, undergraduate students under $100 an hour," he said. Notable examples of the university's "forward thinking" approach include: • The FHSU Virtual College combines the university's forward thinking with its commitment to global engagement. One of President Hammond's first initiatives when he arrived at FHSU in 1987 was to "electrify" the campus. The resulting technological edge in computing and telecommunications positioned FHSU to become the state leader in distance education, which meets the need for lifetime learning that has become the new model for higher education. FHSU has a fall 2009 enrollment of 6,965 in its Virtual College. • The university launched a capital campaign in the midst of the economic downturn. "We announced the $60-million Cornerstone Campaign in September," the president said. "We believe the timing could not be better because nothing is more vital to an economic turnaround than higher education, which provides the trained workers to drive innovation and create new enterprises. We have already brought in $36.6 million in contributions and pledges." • In partnership with Virginia Tech and several other universities, FHSU is constructing two Super Dual Auroral Radar Network antennas that will study the impact of the changing solar winds on Earth's near-space environment. "This is a project with worldwide implications," President Hammond said. "SuperDARN will help us understand the phenomenon that leads to both the beautiful northern lights and harmful effects such as interference with communications and electric grids." Examples of the university's "world ready" approach include: * China is the major new player in the world economy. Of its $1.9 trillion in overseas investments, $1.4 trillion is in the United States. It has enjoyed unprecedented economic growth, with its gross domestic product increasing from $150 billion in 1980 to $1.8 trillion last year. Through its Virtual College, FHSU has 3,211 students at partner universities in China this fall, where FHSU continues to be the leading provider of undergraduate education that is not a Chinese university. * FHSU continues to pursue other international relationships. Most recently, it entered a partnership with St. John International University, located in Vinovo, Italy. This fall, FHSU has nearly 300 students from at least two dozen nations studying on the Hays campus. "Engaging in the world does not necessarily mean leaving the country but having the capability to understand and compete in the global economy, especially as the United States enters a new era of sharing economic dominance," the president said. * The Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science began its first year this fall. Established by the Kansas Legislature in 2006, KAMS is a premier early-entry-to-college program that provides exceptional high school juniors and seniors from across the state with a potent blend of college-level instruction by Ph.D. faculty, a high school diploma and 68 hours of college credit. The students live and learn on the campus of FHSU. "The Chinese word for 'crisis' combines two characters that are roughly translated as 'danger' and 'opportunity,' and I think that describes the current situation in Kansas higher education," the president said. "We are at a crossroads. We've seen what has happened in Colorado, where the higher education system is basically bankrupt. About a tenth of our freshman class came from Colorado this fall because parents understand their sons and daughters can get a high quality education at FHSU at an affordable price. Kansans also understand the importance of higher education. That is why more than 40 percent favor increased state funding of higher education and more than 90 percent believe it should at least be maintained at its current level." Following a news conference this morning on the Hays campus, President Hammond will visit at newspapers, radio and television stations, and with community leaders, alumni and friends of the university in 14 other Kansas cities. He will also visit McCook, Neb., where FHSU recently entered a partnership with Mid-Plains Community College.Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4019http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4020Fourteen students from Fort Hays State University will begin going door to door in Ellis on Monday, Nov. 2, distributing surveys on public attitudes toward local law enforcement, as well as residents preparedness in case of emergency situations. The "City of Ellis Law Enforcement Needs Assessment Survey" is a project of the sociology program of the university's Department of Sociology and Social Work. Dr. Kate McGonigal, assistant professor of sociology, is conducting the survey. She said a main focus is public attitudes in the City of Ellis toward law enforcement. The survey is partially sponsored by the Ellis Police Department, which is picking up printing costs, but neither police nor their families will be involved in the survey, nor will they be selected to receive the survey itself."Once completed the surveys will be in my hands or in a locked file cabinet," McGonigal said, emphasizing that the survey does not ask for and does not want names and that confidentiality will be protected at every step. "The survey is totally confidential."The dates of survey distribution within the City of Ellis will be Nov. 2 to Nov. 9. Once the surveys are completed, residents are asked to place them in the sealable, pre-paid postage envelopes and place those in the mail. Envelopes are addressed to Dr. McGonigal at her FHSU address. All completed surveys should have a postmark of no later than Nov. 22 in order to be accepted. The survey packet contains the survey, a cover letter with instructions, and a postage-paid envelope to mail the survey back to McGonigal. Only surveys mailed back in the enclosed envelope will be collected, in order to ensure confidentiality. Most of the questions will be multiple choice with several open-ended questions. Once results have been read and tabulated, she said, the survey forms will be shredded.People do not need to be home to get surveys. The packets, in bags donated by Dillon Stores, will be left hanging from doorknobs where residents are not at home when a student team comes by. "The primary aim is to assess citizen attitudes in Ellis toward law enforcement, plus a few questions about household emergency preparedness," she said.The 14 students who will be distributing the survey come from two classes at FHSU, a sociology class taught by McGonigal and students from a Leadership Studies class taught by Christie Brungardt, instructor of leadership studies. The students will have official FHSU identification with them anytime they are in Ellis distributing the survey.Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4020http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4013Five Fort Hays State University English majors recently headed south to Oxford, Miss., where they gained biographical and historical insights on Nobel laureate William Faulkner and the Southern culture reflected in his literary works. Students who traveled to Oxford were Traci Bamber, Hill City, junior; M. Dominick Biondo, Kansas City, Mo., senior; Justin Brown, Pratt, graduate student; Paige Kincade, Idaho Springs, Colo., junior; and Olga Renner, University of Duisburg-Essen, Recklinghausen, Germany, graduate student. Faculty members Brenda Craven, instructor of English, and Dr. Bradley Will, associate professor of English, accompanied the group. The first stop for students was Faulkner's home, Rowan Oak, where curator William Griffith led a tour of the antebellum house. Students were allowed to view the kitchen which was Faulkner's favorite writing room, which is usually closed to the public. "If we had only seen Rowan Oak, the 13-hour drive would have been worth it," said Biondo. "Faulkner was a very private man. To see where he wrote showed more about his writing than the stories alone." "We just read 'Absalom, Absalom!' for class," he said. "At one point in the book, someone asks the protagonist, 'Why would anyone live in the South?' Actually being there gave us a better sense of the ruggedness of the land the main character loves." "It provided a true sense of the world in which Faulkner lived and the Southern culture which he is a part of," said Craven. Students visited the University of Mississippi, where they met with Southern literature professor and Fulbright scholar Dr. Catherine McKee, who discussed Faulkner's role as a Southern writer. They also met with Dr. Ted Ownby, director of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture, who explained the center's mission as well as historical aspects of Southern literature and culture. The group visited historic Oxford neighborhoods including the Courthouse Square and St. Peter's Cemetery, burial site of Faulkner. In addition, the group explored Southern music as well as literature, with a visit to Greg Johnson, director of the blues archives, who introduced students to the region's distinctive musical traditions, discussing blues' origins and playing excerpts from important blues works. The Oxford tour concluded with Dr. Jennifer Ford, director of the Faulkner Archives, describing the various holdings in the archives and showing students numerous Faulkner artifacts, papers and manuscripts, which are normally unavailable to the public. "We saw an interesting variety of artifacts at the archives," said Biondo. "To see Faulkner's revision process, in his tiny angular handwriting, really helped shed light on his writing process."Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4013http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4014Fort Hays State University has added several more new full-time faculty for the 2009-2010 academic year. Wesley R. Armstrong accepted a position as the McMindes Hall director and first-year- experience coordinator. He received a Bachelor of Science in computer engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, Ind., in 2006 and a Master of Arts in student affairs and higher education from Indiana State University, Terre Haute, in 2008. Armstrong began his position Aug. 2. Patricia Blanton accepted a position as an instructor of leadership studies for the Virtual College International. She received a Bachelor of Art in education from the University of Illinois, Chicago, in 1977 and a master's degree in educational administration and supervision from North Carolina A.&T. State University, Greensboro, in 1993. She is a doctoral candidate in organizational management and leadership from The University of Phoenix, Phoenix, Ariz., Blanton began her position Aug. 17. Dr. Claudio Carpano accepted a position in the College of Business and Leadership as a visiting professor of management and marketing. He received a master's degree in business administration from Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, in 1983. He received a doctorate of pedagogy from the University of Rome, Italy, in 1979 and a Ph.D. in philosophy in business administration from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, in 1991. Carpano began his position Aug. 17. Karen Du Bois accepted a position as the management and marketing course coordinator for the Virtual College International. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a minor in education from Eastern Nazarene College, Wollaston, Mass., in 1974 and a master's degree in business administration from Suffolk University Boston, Mass., in 1985. Du Bois began her position Aug. 17. Brian G. Faust accepted a position as the director of student residential life. He received a Bachelor of Arts in geography and a minor in political science in 1991, from the University of Wisconsin, Platterville, and a Master of Science in counselor education in 1996, from the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. Faust began his position July 26. Matthew Habiger accepted a position in the College of Business and Leadership as a instructor of economics, finance and accounting. He received a bachelor's degree in mathematical economics from the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minn., in 2006 and a master's degree in economics from the University of Kansas in 2009. Habiger began his position Aug. 17. Stephen Chandler Herrington accepted a position as a management and marketing course coordinator for the Virtual College International. He received a bachelor's degree in business administration from Georgia State University, Atlanta, a Master of Arts from Webster University, St. Louis, Mo., a master's degree in international management from Thunderbird School of Global Management, Glendale, Ariz., and he is a doctoral candidate in business administration from Northcentral University, Prescott, Arizona. Herrigton began his position Aug. 17. Conner Jostes accepted a position as an assistant football coach. He received a Bachelor of Science in education from Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa, in 2006 and a master's degree in administration of sports from FHSU in 2009. Jostes began his position June 25. Jesse W. Kapellusch accepted a position as an assistant compliance and student services coordinator for the Athletics Department. He received a Bachelor of Science in human services, from Lynn University, Boca Raton, Fla., in 2001. Kappellusch began his position Aug. 3. Dona J. Koenigsman accepted a position as the director of student health. She received a Bachelor of Science in nursing from FHSU in 1994. Koenigsman began her position Aug. 31. Jon Lavieri accepted a position as an instructor of English for the Virtual College International. He received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in creative writing from Roger Williams University, Bristol, R.I., and a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo. Lavieri will begin his position Feb. 15, 2010. Joseph Lennon accepted a position as an instructor of English for the Virtual College International. He received a Bachelor of Arts in English and philosophy from the University of Georgia, Athens, in 2002 and a Master of Fine Arts in writing from Washington University, St. Louis, in 2006. Lennon began his position Aug. 17. Jorge H. Mata accepted a ull-time position as an instructor of English for the Virtual College International. He received a Bachelor of Science in advertising from the University of Texas, Austin, in 1980, a master's degree in business administration in international trade from Texas A&M International University, College Station, in 1989 and an honorary doctorate from the London College for Higher Education, England, in 2009. Mata began his position Aug. 17. Joseph Matar accepted a position as an instructor of English for the Virtual College International. He received a Bachelor of Arts in film studies and production from Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y., in 2005 and a Master of Arts in English literature from the University of Leeds, England, in 2008. Matar will begin his position Feb. 15. Maxim Maximov accepted a position in the College of Arts and Sciences as an instructor of modern languages. He received a Bachelor of Arts in German and Spanish from FHSU in 1999 and a Master of Arts in German language and literature from the University of Kansas in 2001. Maximov began his position Aug. 17. Charlene Nichols accepted a position as the interim assistant alumni director for the FHSU Alumni Association. She received her Bachelor of Science in journalism and mass communications from Kansas State University, Manhattan. Nichols began her position Aug. 17. Allyson Karene Plattner accepted a position as director of Wiest and Agnew halls, conference coordinator and Residence Hall Association Advisor. She received a Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership and a Bachelor of Science in communication studies from FHSU, both in 2008. Plattner began her position Aug. 9. Jennifer Rajewski accepted a position as an instructor of communication studies. She received a Bachelor of Arts in dance choreography in 1997, a Bachelor of Science in technical theatre in 1997, and a Master of Arts in stage management in 1999, all from KSU. She received a Master of Fine Arts in stage management and theatre history from the University of Missouri in Kansas City in 2002 and she is a doctoral candidate in dramaturgy at the University of California, Berkley. Rajewski began her position Aug. 17. Sergio J. Ramirez accepted a position in the Department of Admissions as an admissions counselor. He received a Bachelor of Arts in art education from FHSU in 2009 and he is working toward a Bachelor of Arts in secondary education from FHSU. Ramirez began his position Aug. 23. Kimberly L. Rhoton accepted a position as a management and marketing course coordinator for the Virtual College International. She received a Bachelor of Business Administration in management from Davenport University, Dearborn, Mich., in 2003 and a Master of International Business from the University of Saint Thomas, Houston, Texas, in 2007. Rhoton will begin her position Jan. 13. Barbara Ricketts accepted a position as a management and marketing course coordinator for the Virtual College International. She received a Bachelor of Science in psychology in 2001 and a master's degree in international business administration in 2005, both from Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Ricketts began her position Aug. 17. Deborah K. Rodda accepted a position in the Department of Health and Human Performance as an instructor of health and human performance and an assistant athletic trainer. She received a Bachelor of Science in sport and exercise science and physical education from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, in 1990 and a Master of Science in exercise and wellness from Arizona State University, Tempe, in 1993. Rodda will begin her position Aug. 17. Dr. Eric J. Romero accepted a position as a visiting professor of management and marketing for the Virtual College International. He received a Bachelor of Science in management in 1991 and a Master of Science in accounting in 1994, both from Binghamton State University of New York. He received a Ph.D. in management from New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, in 2001. Romero began his position Aug. 17. Marilyn Diane Schultz accepted a position as a management and marketing course coordinator for the Virtual College International. She received a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice and psychology from Michigan State University, East Lansing, and a Juris Doctorate from St. Louis, Mo., University School of Law. Schultz began her position Aug. 17. Matthew G. Thomas accepted a position in the Kansas Academy of Math and Science as a residence counselor. He received a Bachelor of Arts in English and textual studies from Syracuse University, Syracuse, N.Y., in 2004. Thomas began his position Aug. 1. Kathryn J. Wallert accepted a position in the Department of Arts and Sciences as an instructor of psychology. She received a Bachelor of Science in psychology from FHSU in 2005 and a Master of Science in clinical psychology from FHSU in 2009. Wallert began her position Aug. 17. Abbie K. Wedel accepted a position as a full-time teacher in the Tiger Tots Nursery Center. She received a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from FHSU in 2009. Wedel began her position Aug. 17. Amanda William accepted a position as an instructor of psychology. She received a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from FHSU in 2002 and a Master of Science from FHSU in 2004. William began her position Aug. 17. Hope Wilson accepted a position as a management and marketing course coordinator for the Virtual College International. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, and a master's degree in communications from the University of Denver. Wilson began her position Aug. 17. Siyaun "Grace" Zhou accepted a position in the Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning Technologies as an integrated learning technologies specialist. She received her Bachelor of General Studies in business management from FHSU in 2005 and a Master of Science in instructional technology from FHSU in 2009. Zhou began her position Aug. 10.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4014http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4015As high school students prep their calculators, study their formulas, and sharpen their pencils, Fort Hays State University's Mathematics and Computer Science Department makes preparations for the 31st annual Math Relays. On Nov. 12, around 500 students from about 50 schools will begin the relays in the Fort Hays Ballroom and Black and Gold Room in the Memorial Union. The students will be tested in six areas of math: trigonometry, algebra, geometry, applications, number sense and using a calculator. "The kids have the option to either take the tests as an individual or as a team, which is kind of like a relay track team," said Bill Weber, instructor of mathematics and computer science. "One student starts the test and then the other team members come in to finish." Once the students complete their tests, they wait for their awards. Individual and team awards will be presented separately. "We see which school has the highest number of points," said Weber. "All tests are done on Scantrons, so we have results later in the day." For more information, contact Weber at bweber@fhsu.edu or at (785) 628-5375.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4015http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4016Experiencing first hand the responsibilities of being a professional opera singer, Fort Hays State University alumna Emily Cline, Lyons, spent her summer days performing in Opera in the Ozarks at Inspiration Point Fine Arts Colony in Eureka Springs, Ark. Opera in the Ozarks was founded by Dr. Henry Hobart in 1950. It has earned the reputation of being a prominent training program for singers interested in pursuing a career in opera. Every participant is offered an opportunity to perform in fully produced operas. Four weeks of rehearsal and four weeks of performances are under the supervision of a professional staff member. Cline, a 2009 graduate from FHSU with a Bachelor of Music with an emphasis in vocal performance, auditioned for the company and was one of 54 selected to join the cast. After a month of intense rehearsals, Cline began participating in nightly shows and served as a member of the wardrobe crew. She appeared in "Albert Herring" by Benjamin Britton as well as an the outreach educational show "Hansel and Gretel" by Humperdinck, which they performed at local churches and special occasions. "I received a scholarship and was required to help in the costume shop doing whatever the costume mistresses needed done," said Cline. "I also helped build and paint the sets for each of the four operas." Although Cline found it difficult to leave her fiancé and family members, she felt the experience will continue to benefit her. "I want to perform opera for a living, and by working on these roles in a young teaching environment, I was able to make mistakes and learn without getting fired," said Cline. "The professional world is not nearly as forgiving compared to when you are a student. I have gained more experience, and I have developed as an actor and a musician." After two months of long practices and nightly performances, Cline returned home, bringing opportunities, memories and valuable lessons with her. "I feel that I gained confidence, I think being away from all of my friends and family made me really rely on myself, and now I know I am ready for the next step in my career, which is grad school," said Cline. "I feel like I've grown in my acting abilities and I'm much more connected to the text that I am singing. It was really great to see where I stood amidst so many talented people of different ages and educational levels." Even after graduation, Cline continues to take voice lessons through FHSU from Dr. Joe Perniciaro, assistant professor of music. "I am really grateful I had this opportunity and that my teacher was so supportive and encouraging," Cline said. "I learned so much and met so many great people that I know will be contacts for life."Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4016http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4017Fort Hays State University's chapter of Up 'til Dawn is one of 250 college organizations that help raise money for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital for pediatric cancer patients. Directed by Kelsey Colgazier, Larned senior, the first FHSU chapter of Up 'til Dawn brought in more than $28,000 last year and is out to raise more this year. "Our goal is $38,000," said Colglazier. "It takes $1.4 million a day to run the hospital and 85 cents of every dollar goes directly to the hospital." St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital is located in Memphis, Tenn. It maintains 78 inpatient beds and treats upwards of 260 patients per day. The most common form of cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, had a survival rate of 4 percent when the hospital opened in 1962. Through the research of St. Jude's, today it is up to 94 percent. St. Jude's has helped in every state in the United States and in more than 70 countries through treating patients and sharing research. No one is ever turned down due to their inability to pay. "Every 25 cents counts," said Colglazier. Up 'til Dawn is having an all teams meeting from 7 to 11 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 27, in the Black and Gold Ballroom and the Fort Hays Ballroom of the Memorial Union. Teams are made up of five or six students, and registration is $30 per team, which directly goes to St. Jude's and provides each participant with a T-shirt. The meeting will consist of a letter writing campaign where each team member will personalize 35 pre-written letters to friends and family members asking for donations. There will also be free food, free entertainment, fun games, giveaways and a visit from a patient's family. Up 'til Dawn team registration forms will be accepted until the day of the event along with individual registrations and any donations at the Center for Student Involvement in the basement of the Union. "If you can't make this event, don't worry because we will be having two or three different events still this fall and in spring 2010," said Colglazier. As the director of Up 'til Dawn, Colgazier has been a very dedicated volunteer. She has donated her time in various organizations since her freshman year at FHSU, by helping communities everywhere, serving as an Anderson VIP Student Ambassador, and raising money for charities. "I really enjoy helping others," said Colglazier. "I really want to work for non-profit organizations and contribute to making a difference in the lives of others." Colglazier has also volunteered for Tigers In Service both her freshman and junior years at FHSU and directed it during her sophomore year when she led National Youth Service Day and Make a Difference Day on the FHSU campus. She has also volunteered in communities like Gulfport, Miss., helping with Hurricane Katrina relief, in the fall of 2006; San Diego, Calif., to visit a children's homeless shelter and help with an outreach program, in the spring of 2007; Oklahoma City, Okla., to visit the Lovelink Ministry and help in its food pantry and church, in the fall of 2007; Greensburg, helping with tornado relief, in the spring of 2008; and South Padre Island, Texas, helping with Hurricane Ike relief and building reservations, in the fall of 2009. She also helps around her hometown in Larned by being an active community member and donating time to her church. As a result of Colglazier's dedication to FHSU and community volunteering, she was awarded the Fred A. Miller Award in 2008, presented for outstanding service to FHSU and the VIP Ambassadors. "I was really surprised and excited to accept the award. I felt very humbled," she said. For more information on Tigers In Service or Up 'til Dawn, contact the Center for Student Involvement at (785) 628-5664.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4017http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4018Brianne Fulton, Nevada, Mo., graduate student at Fort Hays State University, was picked as one of the 50 winners in the Functional and Sculptural Teapot Exhibition at JRB Art at The Elms, Oklahoma City, from Dec 5-27. "My favorite part of making the teapot -- and in making my sculptures in general -- is making an idea corporeal; something tangible that can be accessed by the general public," Fulton said. "Since my teapot is figurative, I also enjoyed bringing the character to life." The Elms, once a resident studio gallery, has been restored to its original purpose. It provides 4,500 square feet of exhibition space to JRB Art at The Elms. "I'm excited to be in the exhibition. It's always gratifying to be considered for a show. It also always inspires me to work harder so that I continue to be considered for future submissions," Fulton said.Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4018http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4012For a "hair-raising, spine-tingling, stomach-turning good time," Fort Hays State University's Sternberg Museum of Natural History presents a Halloween program with "spooky, kreepy, ooky, kooky kritters." On Saturday, Oct. 24, kids ages 4 to 12 can experience spiders, snakes, owls, bugs, bats and rats. The program will be presented from 1 to 2 p.m. and from 3 to 4 p.m. Kids will have the opportunity to sample "witch's brew and road-kill cookies, boiled down from the blood, bones and brains of your favorite animals," said Brian Bartels, museum educator. The registration deadline for the event is Monday, Oct. 19. Space is limited to 30 kids per session, and each child must be accompanied by an adult. Museum members may attend for free. For non-members, the cost is $5. For more information, contact Bartels at (785) 628-5502 or at bcbartels@fhsu.edu.Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4012http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4009When asked to have their say in a scientific survey conducted recently by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, Kansans spoke well of their home state and expressed confidence in the state economy. Asked about Kansas as a place to live, 64.2 percent of respondents rated it as either excellent or very good, while only 1.5 percent rated it as less than fair. As for the state’s economy, 42 percent of respondents rated it good and 32 percent rated it fair. Only 16 percent thought the state economy was in poor or very poor condition. However, even fewer – 11 percent -- rated the Kansas economy as very good or excellent. The survey, Kansas Speaks, has a high level of validity. Docking Institute researchers surveyed 2,082 Kansans between the months of May and August, producing results that are accurate within plus or minus 2.9 percent. Kansans also weighed in on the topic of health care, which is perhaps the most hotly debated current event across the nation, with 50 percent of the respondents indicating a strong desire for changes in the Kansas healthcare system and an additional 33 percent saying minor changes were required. Women, members of ethnic minorities and lower- income respondents were more likely to report a desire for changes in the Kansas healthcare system. A majority, 56 percent, said they thought it was the responsibility of government to make sure all Americans had healthcare coverage, but 18 percent strongly disagreed. "We want to give Kansans a voice," said Dr. Gary Brinker, director of the Docking Institute. "National polls regularly take the pulse of Americans on vital issues, but they rarely focus on issues of particular interest to Kansans, so the opinions of Kansans on many issues have remained mostly a matter of speculation. Until now, that is. The release of our first 'Kansas Speaks' survey will establish a baseline, and we will conduct a new scientific survey each year to see how the opinions of Kansans are evolving." Some other interesting results: · Well over one-fourth of respondents said they were very concerned about the degree to which economic conditions in Kansas threatened the welfare of their family, and a third said they were moderately concerned. · Almost half, 47 percent, said they thought state spending should be decreased, 35 percent thought the current level of state spending was appropriate, and 18 percent favored an increase in state spending. · Asked about Kansas roads and highways, 65 percent rated them good or excellent with 93 percent saying they were at least fair. · When asked about state support for developing various sources of energy, the strongest levels of support were for wind energy, followed by solar, gas, oil and biofuels such as ethanol. Nuclear energy and coal tended to be the lowest priority. · Respondents were divided on the question of whether the economic benefits of oil and coal production outweigh environmental concerns, with 54 percent saying the benefits of oil outweighed the concerns and 52 percent saying the benefits of coal outweighed the concerns. · About half of respondents were satisfied with the current level of gun control and legalized gambling. Of those dissatisfied, most wanted less legalized gambling and more gun control. · Two-thirds of respondents said they favored more resources devoted to addressing illegal immigration. · A majority of respondents, 53 percent, said they favored teaching both evolution and creationism in the public schools, while 18 percent said that neither theory should be taught. The remaining respondents were evenly divided between wanting one or the other of the theories taught exclusively. · Respondents were highly divided on opinions of the death penalty in Kansas, with the most common response, 40 percent, favoring limited use, 21 percent in favor of abolishing the death penalty and 23 percent in favor of executing all convicted murderers. · A majority of respondents, 52 percent, said funding for K-12 public education should be increased and 93 percent said it should at least be maintained at its current level. · Support for higher education was not as strong, with 43 percent favoring increased funding and 91 percent saying it should at least be maintained at its current level. In addition to the general trends, the survey also examined issues by demographics. For example: · Respondents residing in western Kansas tended to rate the state economy most highly, while those residing in southeast Kansas tended to rate it the lowest. Respondents who voted in the 2008 election, Anglo-Americans, those in upper income categories and those residing in western Kansas tended to rate the state more highly as a place to live. · Preference for teaching both evolution and creationism was highest among respondents with some college, while those with graduate degrees were the most likely to prefer teaching evolution only. · Opposition to the death penalty was stronger among women, those with higher education levels, ethnic minorities and those who voted in the 2008 election. · Support for increasing funding to K-12 was higher among women respondents and respondents between the ages of 26 and 45. · Respondents tending to favor more gun control were non-voters, Hispanics, lower income respondents and women. · Support for more legalized gambling was stronger among upper income respondents and ethnic minorities. · Increased support to address illegal immigration was more popular among non-Hispanic respondents and those with lower levels of education. The entire survey report, including an executive summary and all the statistical results, is available on the Web site of the Docking Institute -- http://www.fhsu.edu/docking/ -- where a link is featured prominently on the home page. About the Docking Institute The Docking Institute of Public Affairs was created in 1980 at Fort Hays State University. Since its inception, the Docking Institute has been a leader in facilitating public policy development for western Kansas and rural Kansas. Today, programs and services targeted toward regional development and growth carry on the tradition of public service started by Kansas Govs. George Docking and Robert B. Docking and Lt. Gov. Tom Docking. The primary mission of the Docking Institute is to facilitate effective public policy decision-making among governmental and non-profit entities. To that end, the Docking Institute's main services include Survey and Focus Group Research, Economic Impact Analysis, Public Policy Analysis and Strategic Planning. Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4009http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4011As part of his annual media tour, Fort Hays State University President Edward Hammond will enjoy the company of FHSU alumni and friends at Tiger gatherings in Hutchinson and Salina. The Hutchinson event is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, at the Dillon Nature Center, 3002 East 30th Ave. Guests will enjoy desserts and beverages followed by an update of the latest and greatest happenings at FHSU by Hammond and Alumni Director Debra Prideaux. A similar event is scheduled for 7 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 28, at the Kennedy & Coe office building, 3030 Cortland Circle, Salina. Again, Hammond and Prideaux will be on hand to share FHSU information along with FHSU Foundation Senior Director of Planned Giving, Brad Botz. Registration by Thursday, Oct. 22, is required for both events. To register, go online to www.goforthaysstate.com or call the FHSU alumni office at (888) 351-3591. The FHSU Alumni Association, established in 1916, is dedicated to identifying and serving the needs of more than 44,000 graduates living throughout the United States and 64 foreign countries. For more information, visit www.fhsu.edu/alumni, e-mail alumni@fhsu.edu or call (785) 628-4430 or toll free (888) 351-3591.Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4011http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4010Are you looking for fun ways to donate your time and money to a charity? Fort Hays State University's Delta Zeta is organizing a tug-o-war charity benefit with donations going towards the Painted Turtle Camp. The turtle tug benefit will start at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22, on the FHSU Quad. "I think this is a great way to get students involved and to help the Delta Zetas support the Turtle Camp," said Bailey Henry, a freshman from Council Grove and Delta Zeta member. The Painted Turtle Camp was established as one of actor Paul Newman's Hole-in-the-Wall camps for seriously ill children. This camp is located in Lake Hughes, Calif., and hosts almost 2,000 children per year in eight sessions. Each session is geared for a specific type of illness and lasts six to eight days. From 110 to 120 children attend each session. Every two children are assigned a nurse who attends to the children in their cabins and throughout their daily activities. The staff consists of top medical professionals who volunteer to live at the camp throughout each session and work closely with the children. In the fall and spring, the camp holds family weekends to involve the parents and siblings. Families can network with other families in similar situations. "It’s a very therapeutic and exciting weekend for everyone," said Dr. Ben Meisel, medical director for The Painted Turtle Camp. At first glace, the camp is like any traditional summer camp with swimming, fishing, horseback riding, arts and crafts, a ropes course, a state of the art gymnasium and nature activities. Every child, regardless of their illness or capacity, can participate fully in every single activity. The camp aims to give these children self-confidence and teach cooperation and how to be self-reliant. The activities are exhilarating, challenging and nurturing. "The Turtle Tug benefit is a really fun way for students to donate to the camp," said Lydia Weed, a sophomore from Salina and Chair of the Turtle Tug Committee. Each tug-o-war team will have five people. The registration fee is $25 per team. Students may register at the Center for Student Involvement office in the basement of the union by Friday, Oct. 16. All fees will be donated to the Painted Turtle Camp. The first place team gets $100 and a T-shirt, and the second place team keeps its registration fee. The losing team will be dragged through 100 pounds of gelatin. "Who wouldn't want to play in Jello?," asked Henry. A costume contest will add extra spice to the event. Prizes will be given to the team with the best costumes. "People can dress up for Halloween or any type of costume they want. It is just a fun way to add a little flavor," said Weed. For more information on the Painted Turtle Camp, visit the Web site at www.thepaintedturtle.org For more information on the Turtle Tug contact the Center for Student Involvement at (785) 628-4664.Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4010http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=3999As part of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History's celebration of the 10th anniversary of its move to the dome in northeast Hays, Joseph T. Collins, director of the Center for North American Herpetology and adjunct curator of herpetology at the museum, will present from 6 to 7 p.m. "Snake Tales" Saturday, Oct. 17, in the Engel Education Classroom. The museum, an entity of Fort Hays State University, moved from McCartney Hall on the FHSU Campus in the spring of 1999. "I will recount some of my own experience with snakes in the wild with a focus on why snakes are important to the environment," said Collins. "I will also inform people on the proper caution to be taken around poisonous snakes." The talk is free and open to the public. The museum gift shop will have an assortment of books by Collins and his wife, Suzanne Collins. Both will be available to answer questions and sign books after the presentation. Free copies of "A Pocket Guide to Kansas Snakes" will be available.Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)3999http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4000With more members than ever before, the Fort Hays State University rodeo team came into the first rodeo of the 2009-2010 season with more chances than ever to climb up the regional standings. Cole Pearson, Clearwater freshman, had a particularly successful weekend after qualifying for the short round at the Colby Community College Rodeo, Sept. 18-20. Pearson is now tied for fourth place as a team roping header in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association’s Central Plains Region. “Hopefully I can stay up there in the top all year and make the CNFR,” said Pearson. The College National Finals Rodeo is the final competition of the season. Each region’s top three contestants in each event compete for the national championship. This season’s CNFR will be June 14-20, 2010, in Casper, Wyo. Pearson teamed up with Duell Strickler from Garden City Community College in the long-go for a time of nine seconds. That time put Pearson and Strickler in fourth place going into the short-go. At the close of the final round, Pearson and Strickler remained in fourth for the average after a time of 24.2. Strickler missed the heels on his first catch but got a clean catch with his second loop. Also qualifying for the short-go was Colton Stueve, Stillwater junior, as a team roping header. Stueve, along with his heeler, Jesse Britton from Oklahoma Panhandle State University, Goodwell, stopped the clock in nine seconds flat in the long-go, placing the two in 10th going into Sunday. After a no-time in the short-go, the two ended up 10th in the average. Out of 103 teams, though, Stueve wouldn’t complain about being at the bottom of the top. “It was a good way to start off the season, and I’m looking forward to competing in the upcoming rodeos. It’s a good feeling to be in the top out of so many teams,” he said. Other FHSU rodeo team members also made clean runs, but none quick enough to make the final round. Another, on the other hand, had a quick run but faced a penalty that kept her out of the Sunday competition. Alexandra Umphenour, Pleasanton freshman, would have made the short-go in barrel racing but her horse knocked over the first barrel, resulting in a five-second penalty. Umphenour was forced to borrow a horse for Colby’s rodeo because her horse was injured. “When I learned that my horse was hurt and I wasn’t going to be able to run him I was really disappointed, but I didn’t want to miss out on the first college rodeo. Even though I got to practice on her (the borrowed horse) once, it wasn’t enough. It takes months to get with a good horse and learn how to cue it, when to cue it, and what to do and what not to do,” Umphenour said. “I think I was just really unfocused,” she said. “I wasn’t really thinking, so we weren’t ready. But I guess I was happy we even got close to the short-go. Maybe next time.” The competitors who filled out FHSU’s largest rodeo team ever, at 39, are listed by hometown, classification, and event. ABILENE: Ethan McDonald, senior, team roping ALLIANCE, Neb.: Shea Henderson, senior, barrel racing and breakaway roping ALMENA: Tanner Jessup, freshman, bull riding ANDOVER: Gage Blair, freshman, team roping BRULE, Neb.: Jennifer Sherman, junior, breakaway roping and team roping CALHAN, Colo.: Autumn Winters, sophomore, barrel racing FREDONIA: Colby Worrell, freshman, calf roping and steer wrestling GROVER, Colo.: Callie Capraro, junior, barrel racing, breakaway roping and goat tying HARPER: CJ Pence, freshman, bull riding HILL CITY: Shane Harmon, senior, team roping JEWELL: Cecilia Reiter, junior, barrel racing LEOTI: Lena Biel, sophomore, barrel racing LITTLE SUAMICO, Wis.: Samantha King, senior, goat tying LYONS: Garret Ludwig, senior, team roping MANKATO: Matt Becker, junior, team roping MAYWOOD, Neb.: Cort Chittick, freshman, team roping MONTE VISTA, Colo.: Blair Jones, freshman, steer wrestling and team roping; Cody Pratt, senior, steer wrestling and team roping PAXTON, Neb.: Bret Daly, junior, steer wrestling and team roping PHILLIPSBURG: Kadie Hays, freshman, barrel racing and breakaway roping; Nikki Brobst, sophomore, breakaway roping PLEVNA: Jordan Sammons, freshman, bull riding PRATT: Josie Brenner, sophomore, barrel racing PURDUM, Neb.: Bobbi Cox, junior, breakaway roping SPEARVILLE: Adam Stegman, junior, team roping Team members who did not compete in Colby: ABILENE: Courtney Miley, junior, barrel racing and goat tying AUGUSTA: Cody Kiser, junior, bull riding BRULE, Neb.: Ben Robinson, junior, calf roping, steer wrestling and team roping COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.: Haley Wilkison, freshman, barrel racing and breakaway roping ELLIS: Kara Hackney, freshman, breakaway roping; Alisha Markle, freshman, barrel racing JEWELL: Josh Smith, junior, saddle bronc riding HANSTON: Cassie Wasko, freshman, barrel racing LYONS: Stevie Magnuson, freshman, barrel racing OTTAWA: Erin Rossman, freshman SHAWNEE MISSION: Jamie Werkowitch, sophomore, barrel racing The current standings and rodeo results can be found on the NIRA Web site, www.collegerodeo.com. For more information on the FHSU Rodeo Team, visit the Web site at www.fhsu.edu/rodeo.Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4000http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4001Elementary education majors who begin their education at Colby and Garden City community colleges will now be able to make a seamless transfer to Fort Hays State University to continue their education after the two colleges signed 2-plus-2 agreements with FHSU this fall. Because there is such a shortage of elementary teachers today, this signing is a great way to make the path towards a degree simpler and clearer, allowing more individuals to complete their education and seek licensure in Kansas. According to Dr. Germaine Taggart, chair of the Department of Teacher Education at FHSU, the partnership will enable those who are seeking degrees in the areas of the elementary education and early childhood education to make an easier transfer. Community college representatives have met with FHSU for several years to discuss programs and procedures that would aid students in their transition to FHSU. These discussions resulted in the 2-plus-2 agreements with Kansas’ community colleges, the most recent being the two with Colby Community College and Garden City Community College. This agreement allows community college students who are working towards an associate degree to know exactly what classes are needed at the community college and at FHSU to eventually earn a bachelor’s degree. Both the elementary education and early childhood unified teaching degrees are offered online, in class or a combination of both. Hopeful teachers can take classes that work around their busy schedules, suit their needs and give them hands-on experience in the teaching field.Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4001http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4002Are you looking for more Spanish culture in your life? Learn how to salsa dance, belly dance, Mexican folkloric dance or learn zumba with the Fort Hays State University Spanish Club and the Hispanic American Leadership Organization in the basement of Wiest Hall on the FHSU campus. Alternating classes will be held every Wednesday at 7 p.m. The first class started on Oct. 7, belly dancing, taught by Zehra Ozkan. The second class, on Oct. 14, is zumba, taught by Michelle Staab. The third class, salsa, Oct. 21 is taught by FHSU students Hector Villanueva, Garden City senior, and Alicia Perkins, Garden City freshman. Each class is taught every third Wednesday, but Mexican folkloric dancing is each Wednesday at 8 p.m. and each Thursday at 7 p.m., also taught by Villanueva and Perkins. The classes are free to anyone, but donations will be accepted for the Spanish Club and HALO. For more information please contact Dr. Conchita Espino-Bravo, assistant professor of modern language, at (785) 628-4263 or email c_espinobravo@fhsu.Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4002http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4003Several students majoring in media studies in the Department of Informatics at Fort Hays State University have completed internships at major media corporations in the U.S., including Fox Sports and Country Music Television, an accomplishment that Department Chair Stephen Schleicher says is a huge compliment not only to the students who were selected, but to the quality of education at FHSU. "Seldom do media conglomerates of this magnitude choose students from schools of our size anywhere in the country," Schleicher said. "The fact that Fox Sports, CMT and others accepted our students shows that they are on the fast-track to succeed in the high-pressure media work force once they graduate." Students selected were Mikayla Lewis, Park City junior, Country Music Television; Andrew Stossmeister, Broomfield, Colo. sophomore, Fox Sports in Denver; and Kyle Haas, Arkansas City junior, Fox Sports in Kansas City, where he helped cover home games of the Kansas City Royals. "I really wanted to have an internship in the Kansas City metro area," Haas said, "It is one of the locations where I thought I might want to eventually work. I got a feel for the 'real world,' and the Royals broadcasters told me I was the first 'announcing' intern they had ever had. I was given an opportunity to actually be on camera." Lewis was equally enthusiastic about her experiences at Country Music Television, an internship obtained through CMT's owner, MTV. Part of her duties included screening new show ideas for CMT and assessing whether shows would appeal to young people. "The focal point of CMT employees is to help out when needed to get the job done," Lewis said. "My assigned department was Original Program and Development, which creates and produces original programming for the network retools existing CMT programs. From running errands to answering the phone, booking appointments, setting up conference calls, the tasks were endless, yet I gained much experience." Stossmeister actually had two internships, one for Fox Sports in Denver and one for KOA Radio News Talk, the largest station in Colorado. "I made great connections, which will definitely help me in the future. I covered the Denver Broncos and got a chance to work with other professional sports teams in Colorado, which was a great experience," he said. "It's almost unheard of for college students from any university to score internships in big media centers like Denver, Kansas City and Nashville," said Mel Hanks, assistant professor of media studies at FHSU. All the interns were students in several of Hanks’ broadcast journalism classes. "Once they graduate, these students will be first on the list for jobs at these large companies because the bosses already know and like them," he said. In addition to the Department of Informatics majors, several other students in Hanks' classes are currently enrolled in internships at Fox News in Dallas and television stations in Wichita. "Fort Hays State is one of the few universities that allows students to become involved in their major program prior to their junior year," said Dr. Mark Bannister, dean of the College of Business and Leadership. "The extra hands-on and practical knowledge better prepare them to land high-profile internships like these."Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4003http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4004Larry Dreiling, senior field editor for The High Plains Journal, Dodge City, has been named as the Alumni Association representative to the Fort Hays State University Athletic Association Advisory Board for the 2009-2010 academic year. The function and role of the board is to provide input to the Athletic Board of Directors regarding the affairs of the Athletic Corporation and to perform any and all acts related to the association. Dreiling, Hays, graduated from FHSU in 1980 with Bachelor of Arts in political science and communications. He went on to obtain a master's degree from FHSU in communications in 1985. Dreiling recently completed two four-year terms on the FHSU Alumni Association board of directors, serving on both the membership and marketing committee as well as the awards and recognition committee. He is past president of the Hays Rotary Club, the American Agricultural Editors' Association and the Association of North American Agricultural Journalists. Dreiling also is an active member of the National Agri-Marketing Association, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Committee to Protect Journalists. He is also a non-resident member of the National Press Club of Washington, D.C. The FHSU Alumni Association, established in 1916, is dedicated to identifying and serving the needs of more than 44,000 graduates living throughout the United States and 64 foreign countries. For more information, visit www.fhsu.edu/alumni or e-mail alumni@fhsu.edu or call (785) 628-4430 or toll free (888) 351-3591.Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4004http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4005Dr. Curtis Brungardt, director for the Center for Civic Leadership at Fort Hays State University, has been appointed to the Kansas Volunteer Commission by Kansas Governor Mark Parkinson. Brungardt is also the Omer G. Voss Distinguished Professor of Leadership Studies at FHSU. The commission upholds the value of service and volunteering to all citizens of the state to address community needs, respond to disasters and inspire a commitment to community service among Kansans. Brungardt earned a doctorate in curriculum, instruction and policy studies from Kansas State University. He is also a co-founder of the 1100 Torches National Campaign, a non-profit organization that promotes community service in honor of the late Jana Mackey. Brungardt will serve as a member representing higher education. Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4005http://www.fhsu.edu/currentevents/display_event.php?id=4006Every Saturday at Fort Hays State University, the Chinese Student Association teaches people from the Hays area about Chinese language and culture through afternoon learning sessions as part of the Chinese Academy Project. The students teach Chinese language, paper folding, ping-pong, painting, brush pen writing, tai chi, Chinese painting and knotting. Classes are offered every Saturday with an adult session, free of charge, from 1 to 5 p.m. and a children session, $20 per semester, from 1 to 4 p.m. Classes are located in the Trails and Prairie rooms in the Memorial Union. For a full schedule, visit the Chinese Academy Web site at http://sites.google.com/site/chineseacademyfhsu/home, and click on the "Adult Saturday" and "Children Saturday" links on the left-hand side of the page. Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 CSTsklaus@fhsu.edu (Fort Hays State University)4006